enacliti

Enacliti is the name given in some geological and mineralogical discussions to a proposed mineral species. It has not been officially recognized by the International Mineralogical Association (IMA), and no specimens have been verified in peer-reviewed studies.

Origin of the term and proposed classification: The name appeared in a small number of speculative papers in the 2010s; the term is intended to designate a hydrated aluminum silicate with a layered, micaceous habit. The proposed chemical composition is cited as (Al,Mg)2Si4O10(OH)2, with variable Fe and Mn substitution. The hypothetical mineral would belong to the phyllosilicate family.

Reported properties and evidence: Proponents described pale-green to gray crystals with a mica-like luster and a soft to moderately hard Mohs 2–3. They claimed distinctive X-ray diffraction patterns and electron microprobe data. However, independent laboratories have not reproduced the results, and the available data remain unpublished in primary peer-reviewed venues.

Current status and discussion: Within the mineralogical community, enacliti is treated as a nomen nudum—an unverified name used in speculative contexts. Until a holotype specimen, robust crystallography, and peer-reviewed publication appear, enacliti remains a hypothetical mineral.

Related topics include mineral nomenclature, phyllosilicates, and the standards of evidence that govern mineral discovery.